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Rotating Rooms and 3d Printed Concrete in a Modular Family Residence

Rotating Rooms and 3d Printed Concrete in a Modular Family Residence
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With rotating rooms optimized for sunlight exposure and constructed using 3D printed concrete, the design creates a modular family residence that adapts seamlessly to growing household needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rotating rooms adjust for optimal sunlight exposure throughout the day.
02
Constructed using 3D printed concrete for efficiency and precision.
03
Features a modular layout that accommodates future expansion needs.
04
Integrated wind tower for natural ventilation, enhancing indoor comfort.
05
Utilizes smart glass that dynamically adjusts to environmental conditions.

### Overview and Concept

Located in Hatta, approximately 134 km east of Dubai, UAE, the Famil-tree House is designed to reflect traditional Arab and Islamic values while incorporating modern architectural practices. The concept is rooted in the dynamics of a family tree, emphasizing adaptability and connection. The design aims to create a flexible living environment that can evolve in response to the changing needs of extended families, supporting both privacy and communal interaction.

### Architectural Form and Spatial Strategy

The Famil-tree House employs a modular design featuring a circular central core surrounded by individual living units. This configuration facilitates a balance between privacy and community, encouraging interpersonal relationships among inhabitants. The primary layout consists of two bedrooms with the potential for expansion, accommodating up to four additional rooms or living spaces. This flexibility allows it to adapt to different family configurations, making it suitable for varying group sizes and generational changes.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The construction utilizes an array of advanced materials to enhance durability and efficiency. The integration of 3D printed concrete allows for rapid assembly, particularly in the upper levels. Intelligent glass is used to optimize energy consumption by adjusting its transparency based on environmental conditions, reducing reliance on artificial climate control. Additionally, a stainless steel frame contributes to structural integrity while maintaining an elegant appearance. Wood finishes are incorporated to add warmth and comfort to the interior spaces. Elevating the design's environmental consideration, natural ventilation is facilitated by a traditional wind tower, complemented by sensor-controlled louvers to promote airflow.

Unique features also include rotating rooms on the second floor, designed to pivot for optimal sunlight exposure while reflecting biomimicry principles. The incorporation of a *majlis* fosters cultural connections, providing a designated space for family gatherings. Overall, the Famil-tree House emphasizes a harmonized approach to living, where architecture supports both personal and communal well-being.

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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100,000€ Prize / 2025
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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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